This Saturday, March 8, 2014, celebration of International Women's Day, President Michel Martelly has addressed a message, which pays tribute to Haitian women.

Message of President Martelly :

"Valiant women of Haiti, March 8 gives us the opportunity to thinking about one of the greatest conquest of the modern society, the equality and the empowerment of women. In this movement Haiti can invoke one step ahead, especially as the value of its women is no longer to be proven.

My government not only encourages the movement, but also enshrined in the legal fabric, this ratio can not be disputed.

Warriors, our women participated in the struggles of our fathers for our emancipation.

Pillars of our economy, they are not sparing neither courage nor sweat nor their intelligence to stimulate and support domestic production.

Effective pillars of the family, our women have made huge sacrifices to educate their children. By investing in the family they helped to cement national unity.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Studies have proven that countries where women are treated on an equal basis with men, have better economic growth, companies that have women among their leaders show better results. The parliaments where seat women adopt more laws on fundamental social issues such as health, education, non-discrimination and family allowances.

The gender equality is undoubtedly one of the key of development.

I affirm with pride that my administration has always insisted so that a significant quota of women is respected within the state apparatus. The number of citizens women holding an important position in the political and administrative hierarchy is the proof.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The battle in which we commit to make Haiti stronger, more beautiful and prosperous requires the mobilization of all the forces of the nation and this mobilization will only reach its maximum coefficient of efficiencies that insofar all components are elevated to the height and dignity of their capacity.

I always combated discrimination and injustices against women and girls, in this context I particularly commends the Ministry for the Status and Rights of Women, which has always distinguished by initiatives that contribute to the positive development of our citizens woman.

I also greet all feminist movements who have worked and today allowed emancipation.

I take advantage of this 8 March to renew to all women of Haiti my considerations and respect.

Today I am here to witness the recognition of the State and the Nation for your contribution to the progress of Haiti.

[...]

Happy Birthday women of my country, I love you very much. Thank you"

Continuation of message in Creole :

HL/ S/ HaitiLibre